It is with the heaviest of hearts that our family announces the passing of Patrick Alfred Shanks on Friday, April 26, 2024 at the Grande Prairie Regional Hospital at the age of 71. He passed away peacefully with his family by his side.

Patrick was born in Oliver, BC on March 28, 1953 to Boyd and Mary Shanks. He was the youngest of four boys.

In 1978, while apprenticing as a carpenter in Edmonton, Barb's brother Wayne introduced Patrick to the love of his life, Barb, and they married on October 21 of that year. The following year, Pat had the opportunity to start a business, known now as Shadow Rathole Drilling. He had 45 years of enjoyment with his company.

Later in 1979, Pat and Barb welcomed their son Jason and two years later, they were blessed with their daughter, Nicole.

“They set out on a great journey, seeking their own happily ever after. Along the way they faced a few dragons, explored new territory, and were thrust into adventures they never saw coming. They took every smile and every tear, a few differences of opinion and some major triumphs and they turned them into something beautiful.”

In the early 90’s, Pat and Barb purchased a quarter section of land, where they spent many years developing their dream oasis. Pat loved when family and friends would come to enjoy their place and would soon put them to work gathering firewood or other fun jobs.

Family was the most important thing to Pat, and his children could count on a phone call from Dad every day.

Pat and Barb travelled to many places together and spent the last 12+ winters taking their motorhome to Arizona. They enjoyed going on family trips, which took them to places like Europe, Palm Springs, and Maui.

Patrick will be sadly missed by his loving wife Barb; son Jason (Sally); daughter Nicole (Emerson); four adorable grandchildren: Madison, Devon, Elana, and Taylor; brothers: Boyd (Lynne), Andrew (Glenis), and John (Nikki); as well as numerous in-laws, nephews, and nieces.

He was predeceased by his parents, Boyd and Mary Shanks, father-in-law, Charlie Cunningham, and sister-in-law Chris Dillabough.

“My favourite love story of all time is the one we had together.”

Our hearts were not ready to let you go.

A celebration of life will be determined at a later date.